Mendez On Zaynukov As 'Total MMA Package'

American Kickboxing Academy head coach Javier Mendez says undefeated UFC prospect Magomed Zaynukov has become a complete fighter despite coming from a Muay Thai background.

Zaynukov, who carries a 9-0 record, trains under Khabib Nurmagomedov's team at AKA — a camp known for producing dominant wrestlers. But Mendez told Red Corner MMA that the lightweight has sharpened his grappling skills to the point where he challenges UFC champion Islam Makhachev in the gym.

Zaynukov's Wrestling Growth Makes Him More Than A Striker

"Chanco gives Islam some really tough rounds because he's gotten really good at defending and surviving on the ground and getting back up," Mendez said, per Sherdog. "Or even attacking on the ground. 'Chanco' is a total MMA package. Don't look at him as just a Thai boxer. He's a total package. He can do it all."

The 28-year-old earned his UFC contract on Dana White's Contender Series last year and won his promotional debut against Damian Rzepecki at UFC Abu Dhabi. He battered Rzepecki with strikes, including flashy elbows, over three rounds to take a decision.

Mendez believes Zaynukov's striking background will make him a fan favorite as he climbs the lightweight ranks. "People normally tend to like the strikers over the ground guys. So 'Chanco' is going to be a fan favorite for sure," the veteran coach added.

Zaynukov has not yet been booked for his next octagon appearance.

Photo: Alidesign05 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Original reporting:

• sherdog.com — Javier Mendez explains why UFC Prospect Magomed Zaynukov is ‘total MMA package’